IoT Application Authorization via Pre-Authenticated Network Contexts

The patent implements preliminary action by establishing authentication and authorization contexts before actual communication occurs. The network operator's network authentication function authenticates the IoT device and establishes an authentication context, while the content provider's authentication function simultaneously authorizes the device for specific content services. This preliminary authentication and authorization setup eliminates the need for repeated authentication checks during subsequent communications, thereby reducing communication delays and improving efficiency.

The patent introduces intermediary authentication functions as mediators between IoT devices, network operators, and content providers. The network authentication function acts as an intermediary that handles device authentication, while the content provider authentication function serves as an intermediary for authorization decisions. These intermediary functions streamline the authentication and authorization process by centralizing the verification logic, reducing the overhead of repeated authentication checks, and enabling faster communication between all parties.

The patent applies universality by designing a multi-functional authentication system where the network authentication function performs both device authentication and authorization coordination, while the content provider authentication function handles both authorization verification and session management. This universal approach consolidates multiple authentication-related operations into single functions, reducing the number of separate systems needed and thereby lowering operating expenses while maintaining security through comprehensive authentication coverage.

The patent implements self-service by enabling the authentication and authorization system to automatically manage its own operations. The authentication functions automatically verify device credentials, establish authentication contexts, and coordinate authorization decisions without requiring manual intervention. The system self-manages authentication state information and automatically handles subsequent communications, reducing operational overhead and expenses while maintaining reliable security through automated verification processes.